News & Alerts

The 'danger of excessive UV light...skin damage and cancer is far greater than the perceived risk posed by nano-sunscreens, which is not supported by the scientific literature' concludes a new, peer-reviewed analysis in the Medical Journal of Australia published this month. The report, authored by Paul Wright of RMIT University in Melbourne and funded by the public National Health and Medical Research Council, analyses the risks and benefits of nanomaterial usage in sunscreens and how these are perceived by the public.

The author finds risks to be minimal since nanomaterials in sunscreens have undergone extensive safety testing showing them to be 'both effective and safe', while the benefits can be significant considering Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. However, public perception does not always match this analysis and some consumers are still concerned about using these products. This is despite the numerous safety studies by public organisations such as Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and highlights the need to improve dialogue to better understand the reasons behind the concern. As the author concludes, "it is crucial people do not stop using the most effective broad spectrum sunscreens as part of their sun protection measures."